Blizzard’s Collaboration with Anime Studio Sunrise for Overwatch 2 Receives Mixed Reactions
Disappointment Over In-Game Models for Cowboy Bebop Skins
Blizzard Entertainment’s recent collaboration with anime studio Sunrise to introduce Cowboy Bebop characters to Overwatch 2 has generated great enthusiasm among fans. However, the unveiling of the in-game models for characters such as Cole Cassidy, the outlaw cowboy formerly known as McCree, has left many disappointed.
Image: Blizzard Entertainment
Compared to the original concept art, Cassidy’s in-game model dressed as Spike Spiegel lacks appeal. The lack of resemblance has drawn criticism from the Overwatch community, especially towards Cassidy’s hair and overall appearance as the character.
A Design Intention: Cosplaying Overwatch Heroes
The development team, however, defends the design choices for the skins and states that Overwatch heroes are cosplaying as the characters rather than becoming them. Art director Dion Rogers clarifies that these choices are made to closely match the appearance of Spike Spiegel and to maintain the identity and art style of the Overwatch heroes.
Reactions and Consistency
The overwhelming negative feedback, particularly aimed at Cassidy’s design and hair, on social media platforms such as Twitter and TikTok, hasn’t swayed the game’s artists from their artistic vision. Overwatch 2 wants to retain the identity and art style of their heroes in all collaborations.
The Cowboy Bebop crossover content is now available in Overwatch 2.
